What to expect from fee-paying teacher training

Are you considering training to teach and wondering what the fee-paying route actually looks like in practice? Whether you’re changing careers or just finishing university, understanding how this path works can help you decide if it's right for you.

At United Teaching, we support aspiring teachers at every stage of their journey. If you're thinking about applying for the fee-paying route, here's what you can expect — along with the support you'll receive throughout.

What is the fee-paying route?

Simply put, fee-paying trainees do not receive a salary as part of their teacher training and are required to cover the costs of the tuition fees.

Trainees on the fee-paying route receive the same quality of training as those on the salaried route and receive a mixture of in-school experience and academic study. Designed to build teaching skills gradually, fee-paying trainees start on a lower teaching load than salaried trainees and gradually progress.

The route is ideal for anyone looking for a school-based teacher training programme that offers a gradual increase in teaching responsibilities.  

Funding your teacher training as a fee-paying trainee

Trainees on the fee-paying route are responsible for covering tuition fees.

Several financial support options are available:

• Student finance: Subject to eligibility, you could receive tuition fee and/or maintenance loans through Student Finance England. You can apply for a tuition fee loan up to £9,535 per year and a maintenance loan to help with living costs.
• Bursaries: Tax-free, non-repayable sums of money awarded based on your qualifications and the subject you wish to teach.
• Scholarships: Similar to bursaries but with additional perks such as access to events, resources, and networking opportunities. Scholarships are offered by institutions like the Institute of Mathematics, the Institute of Physics, the Royal Society of Chemistry, and the British Council.

Note: You cannot receive both a bursary and a scholarship.

A typical week on the fee-paying route

Your training year will balance practical school experience with time for study and reflection. A typical week includes:

• 3–4 days in school: Gradually taking on more teaching responsibility
• 1 day of training: Delivered by United Teaching and Bath Spa University, primarily online
• Additional time: For lesson planning, observations, assignments, and professional development

This structure is designed to be challenging yet manageable, with dedicated support to help you balance your time effectively.

Life in the classroom

One of the main benefits of school-led fee-paying training, compared to the traditional university route, is that from your first week you'll be part of a real school community.

Over the year, your classroom role will evolve as follows:

• Autumn term: Observing, co-teaching, and supporting small groups
• Spring term: Leading parts of lessons and teaching some classes
• Summer term: Taking increased responsibility and preparing for your first full-time teaching role

You'll be closely supported by a dedicated mentor in your placement school, along with regular feedback and guidance to help you grow in confidence and skill.

A triangle of support

We believe in bringing out the best in everyone. That’s why, as a trainee, you'll be supported by three mentors:

• School-based mentor: Offers weekly feedback, support, and coaching
• Professional mentor: Checks in regularly and helps track your progress
• Subject mentor: Helps you develop strong expertise in your subject

If you opt to study a PGCE, you'll also receive academic support with PGCE assignments and study skills.

What you will gain

By the end of your training year, you'll have:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
• A PGCE
• Extensive classroom experience in at least two schools
• A strong foundation in teaching theory and practice
• The confidence and skills to begin your Early Career Teacher (ECT) year

Is the fee-paying route right for you?

This route is a great fit if you are prepared to invest in a high-quality training year, want the structure and support of academic study alongside classroom practice, and thrive in a reflective, learning-focused environment.

Plus, flexible funding options such as bursaries and scholarships could help you cover the costs of your training and provide additional resources and opportunities. Read about Elizabeth’s fee-paying journey with a chemistry scholarship.

If you're unsure whether the fee-paying or salaried route is best for you, we're here to help you explore your options.